By Sarah Bull


Subdued: Chantelle Houghton can't raise a smile as she launches her new clothing boutique in Buckhurst Hill, Essex


She arrived in a horse-drawn carriage wearing a stunning plunging black dress which showed ex-boyfriend Rav Wilding exactly what he's missing.

But newly-single Chantelle Houghton failed to raise a smile for photographers as she posed at the launch of her very own boutique, Vardo by Chantelle, in Essex.

And the reason for the former Big Brother star's unusually subdued appearance is more than likely to be down to her recent split from Crimewatch presenter Rav.

Who are your friends? Chantelle poses with a horse-drawn carriage after arriving at the launch in a stunning black gown


The pair split earlier this week after they were seen having a furious argument in London's Richmond Park over the weekend.

Following the break-up, Rav tweeted: 'Wanted to clarify situation after speculation 2day. Sadly Chantelle & I are no longer in a relationship as I’ve had to draw a line under it.

'It’s been a really difficult week and a lot has gone on, & I appreciate everyone’s kind words. The relationship wasn't what I wanted so badly and wasn’t the genuine thing I thought it was.

Cheer up! It seems Chantelle is struggling to cope following her split from Crimewatch presenter Rav Wilding

Arriving in style: Chantelle was driven to the launch in a carriage pulled by horses with feathered headdresses


'It's so upsetting as I genuinely & truly loved Chantelle, but the publicity side isn'’t always reflective of the truth. All I ask is that you don’'t believe everything that’s written, and thanks again to everyone who'’s been in touch – means a lot x'

Chantelle was pictured in tears after Rav lost his temper with her during what was supposed to have been a romantic picnic in the park.

However, Chantelle has remained resolutely silent about the split, tweeting fans only to reassure them she was coping after the split.

Smile for the cameras! The Only Way Is Essex star Maria Fowler dressed in Forever Unique frock and beamed for photographers but Chantelle remained stony-faced


And pose: Both the girls show off their red carpet posing skills outside the shop in Essex


She wrote on her Twitter page: 'Had an awful week thanks for all ur support x'

Shortly before the split, Chantelle spoke candidly about her relationship with Rav, admitting she struggles to cope with the frequent arguments the couple had.

She said: 'We have little rows - Rav finds it really hard that I've been married before. It doesn't anger me but I don't like someone wanting to change my past because I wouldn't change it for anything - I don't regret any of it.'

Drama: Chantelle was left in floods of tears after an argument with Rav Wilding last weekend

Split: Shortly after the public row, Rav announced the couple had parted ways on his Twitter page


Vardo by Chantelle is the star's first clothing boutique and is situated in Buckhurst Hill, Essex.

Talking about the new venture, Chantelle said: 'I’m looking to sell beautiful clothes to ladies that want to look glamorous, whatever their age.'

Also at the launch last night was The Only Way Is Essex star Maria Fowler, who looked pretty in a black and white floaty dress by Forever Unique and matching heels.

Vardo Boutique will be selling a range of men's and women's clothing, jewellery and accessories including labels such as Forever Unique and Arrogant Cat.



source:dailymail